ESL Goals:

The Elementary Language Arts program is supplemented by an ESL support system. Qualified and certified ESL support teachers are allocated to grades 1-5. They work closely with the classroom teachers to enhance the student's English language acquisition.

The ESL support teachers work inside the classroom with the class teachers, and in a withdrawal program depending on the needs of the student and the classroom teacher.

Entry:

All students whose mother tongue is not English will be tested before being placed in a class to ascertain their level of English proficiency.

The aim of the program is to:

• develop English language skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing to such a level the student can function effectively in the mainstream classroom.
• build the student's confidence in effectively using the English language.
• enable the student to participate fully in all the school's activities.
• develop a positive attitude to the new culture they are being immersed in and to school life.

Exit:

The progress of students in ESL will be constantly reviewed. The ESL teacher in consultation with the classroom teacher and the principal will decide when a student is ready to exit the program.

All non-native English speakers are evaluated by the ESL Department prior to their placement. Placement of students is determined by the ESL Department, Director of Admissions and consultation with the Principal. Students exit the ESL program based on the following 3 criteria: proficiency examination, classroom performance and ESL teacher recommendation.